Coloring Academy

14 free alcohol marker lessons, step by step: from the basics to blending, shading and cozy coloring techniques.

• Alcohol marker basics: Tips, paper and the one stroke that keeps your colors smooth.
• Choosing a cozy color combo: Three colors that belong together, picked in under a minute.
• Common mistakes and quick fixes: Streaks, bleeding and muddy blends, and how to rescue them.
• Soft blending: Go from light to dark in small steps for a seamless gradient.
• Flick blending: Quick little flicks that make two colors melt into each other.
• Pick a light source: Decide where the light comes from and everything else falls into place.
• Glowing highlights: Leave the paper white in the right spot and things start to shine.
• Soft shadows that stay clean: Cool or warm shadows that add depth without going grey.
• Cozy wood grain: Rings, knots and grain lines for tables, shelves and cabins.
• Bricks and stones: Give walls and paths a worn, friendly texture.
• Knit and fabric folds: Sweaters, scarves and blankets with soft folds and stitches.
• Soft flower petals: Petals that curl and glow, from the center outwards.
• Fluffy animal fur: Layered strokes for cats, bunnies and teddy bears.
• Sparkle with a white gel pen: The finishing touch: dots, lines and twinkles on top of ink.